Mountain Street Reserve

Small Park, good to read a book, or have coffee ☕️Mountain Street Reserve (technically located on the border of Glebe and Ultimo) is currently undergoing a significant transformation. As of early 2026, the City of Sydney has moved from the planning phase into active construction. ​If you are visiting or live nearby, here is a review of what to expect and the details of the ongoing maintenance and upgrade work. ​Review: Mountain Street Reserve (January 2026) ​The reserve has long been a quiet, albeit slightly weathered, "pocket park" that serves as a vital green link between the residential terrace houses of Glebe and the more industrial-edged Ultimo. While it previously felt a bit dark and underutilized at night, the current upgrades are specifically designed to turn it into a more polished, safer, and vibrant community hub. ​The Current Experience: ​Accessibility: Expect temporary fencing and limited access through the main thoroughfare. ​Atmosphere: It is currently a construction site. While the mature trees are being protected, the usual quiet of the reserve is replaced by the hum of machinery and the presence of work crews. ​Aesthetic Potential: The plans show a shift away from "just a patch of grass" toward a structured urban oasis with high-quality materials like brick paving and stone retaining walls. ​Maintenance & Upgrade Details ​The City of Sydney is executing a comprehensive "Concept Plan" that goes beyond simple maintenance. Key works currently underway include: ​New Pathways & Lighting: The most significant functional change is the installation of new pole-top lighting with glare shields. This is a massive win for residents who use the park as a shortcut at night. ​Retaining Wall Restoration: Crews are currently restoring the existing brick walls and repurposing stone for new low-level retaining walls that double as garden edges. ​New Social Spaces: The "informal sitting area" is being built, which features a painted play surface (for games) and distinctive colorful concrete stools. ​Landscaping: While two damaged trees were slated for removal, the project includes planting four new trees and adding extensive native "bush tucker" mix garden beds. ​Hardware Upgrades: New park seating, rubbish bins, and "heel-safe" grates for drainage are being installed throughout the site. ​Quick Facts for Locals.Feature Status Project Duration Started early 2026; expected to take ~4 months. Noise/Impact Daytime work (7:30 am – 5:30 pm) with moderate machinery noise. Tree Protection Mature trees are being retained and fenced off for safety. Key Benefit Improved safety via lighting and better pedestrian flow to Blackwattle Lane.

Good park, couple of benches